In Episode 3 of Dan Da Dan, the stakes rise as Ken and Momo find themselves facing an even more dangerous foe. The episode shifts the tone slightly, leaning into horror elements while still delivering plenty of humor and heart. As their bond strengthens, the supernatural mysteries surrounding them grow even darker.
Plot Summary
After barely defeating the spirit at the shrine, Ken and Momo decide they need more information about the strange beings they’ve encountered. They visit an eccentric occult specialist—an elderly woman rumored to know everything about spirits, aliens, and other unexplained phenomena. The encounter adds a new layer of mystery to the story, as she warns them about an impending threat that connects both the paranormal and extraterrestrial worlds.
Things take a terrifying turn when Ken begins to experience vivid nightmares, hinting at something sinister tied to his alien abduction. These dreams blur the line between reality and the supernatural, leaving Ken confused and vulnerable. Meanwhile, Momo senses the presence of a powerful entity watching them, but she can’t determine if it’s a spirit or something else entirely.
Their investigation is cut short when they are ambushed by a terrifying new spirit—an ancient specter said to curse anyone who looks into its eyes. Ken and Momo must fight not only to survive but also to understand the connection between these spirits and the aliens. Just as the specter gains the upper hand, Ken’s powers manifest again, stronger than before, allowing him to turn the tide and banish the entity.
Character Dynamics
This episode brings a more serious tone to Ken and Momo’s relationship. Ken’s nightmares highlight his fears of not being strong enough, while Momo’s growing concern for his well-being shows her deepening care for him. Their banter remains a key element of the series, but the emotional weight of the episode gives their friendship more depth.
Momo also begins to reveal more about her past, hinting at a deeper reason for her fascination with the supernatural. This added complexity makes her character even more intriguing, giving viewers a reason to root for her beyond her fighting prowess.
Tone and Themes
Episode 3 introduces darker themes, focusing on fear, vulnerability, and the unknown. The nightmares Ken experiences and the unsettling presence watching Momo add an eerie atmosphere to the episode. At the same time, the humor is still present, keeping the story from becoming too heavy.
The idea of finding strength in the face of fear is central to this episode. Both Ken and Momo are forced to confront their doubts and insecurities, and by the end, they emerge stronger—though it’s clear that bigger challenges lie ahead.
Animation and Visuals
The visuals in Episode 3 are a standout, with the dream sequences providing some of the most striking imagery so far. The fight with the cursed spirit is dynamic and visually intense, with eerie effects that perfectly capture the haunting nature of the enemy. The show’s use of color and lighting continues to enhance the supernatural tone of the story.
My Thoughts:
Episode 3 starts off where episode 2 left off; our two heroes have emerged victorious against the sumo-styled villain but now Ken’s curse has taken over and Momo has passed out and unable to undo the curse… precarious situation…
Momo’s grandma Seikois able to stop the curse and traps him in place and explains the powers she has in creating barriers. And when prompted about the condition of Ken, the grandma throws it in Mono’s face that she doesn’t believe in spirits and that she has called her grandma a fake for years.
At the end Momo and her grandma have a bonding moment while Ken and Momo head off to take down turbo granny.
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